Hidden Damage at Bartolott Crypt Raises Concerns

An internal technical report has surfaced, shedding light on the extensive damage sustained by the historic 1604 Bartolott Crypt at St. John’s Co-Cathedral. This document, which was initially withheld from public scrutiny and even members of the Cathedral Foundation’s board, reveals that centuries-old stone slabs have suffered severe structural damage due to the recent installation of a heavy raised flooring structure.

This report directly contradicts an earlier investigation by architect Alan Saliba, the Commissioner for the Environment and Planning at the Ombudsman’s Office, who had dismissed claims of damage. Despite his conclusions, the confidential report provides clear evidence that the additional weight of the flooring structure led to sections of the crypt’s stone flooring collapsing. The vaults beneath, which serve as the resting place for approximately 600 members of the Knights of St. John, have been adversely affected, raising significant concerns about heritage conservation and proper restoration techniques.

Findings of the Technical Report

The technical assessment, conducted by AP Projects in April 2024, was compiled just weeks after the first signs of damage were observed. The report calls for immediate corrective measures to mitigate the impact on the crypt's antique flagstone flooring.

According to the findings, following the placement of the heavy flooring structure, numerous stone slabs—historically known as “ċangatura”—have shown signs of instability and have partially collapsed under standard weight conditions. The report further clarifies that these stone slabs were never designed to bear such excessive loads, confirming that the intervention was structurally unsound.

A critical point of contention is that AP Projects, the same architectural firm responsible for designing and installing the raised flooring, was also responsible for conducting the damage assessment. Many experts have questioned the ethics and accuracy of a report authored by those directly linked to the problem, calling for an independent review of the incident.

Accompanying the report are photographic records illustrating the visible damage, directly challenging Saliba’s claim that no structural deterioration has taken place. These images serve as undeniable proof of the flooring’s subsidence, further calling into question the validity of the Ombudsman’s investigation.

Ombudsman’s Report Under Fire

In response to mounting concerns, Alan Saliba published a four-page report earlier this week in which he refuted allegations of damage to the Bartolott Crypt. His investigation, which took place several months after the initial incident, contradicted reports published by The Shift in January 2024. Saliba concluded that the claims of damage and mismanagement by the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage were unfounded and did not merit further scrutiny.

However, when pressed for further details regarding the basis of his findings, including the experts he consulted and whether he had access to the unpublished AP Projects report, Saliba refused to provide clarity. His reluctance to share the details of his investigation has sparked further skepticism among professionals in the fields of architecture and heritage preservation.

Several heritage conservation experts have openly criticized Saliba’s report, questioning the methodologies he employed and the individuals he consulted. They argue that his conclusions appear baseless in the face of tangible photographic evidence demonstrating the crypt’s deterioration.

Efforts to Conceal the Damage

Reports indicate that the St. John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation deliberately attempted to suppress information regarding the damage to the Bartolott Crypt. Under the leadership of Mgr Emmanuel Agius, a professor of ethics and morality appointed by Archbishop Charles Scicluna, the Foundation has faced criticism for its lack of transparency.

Mgr Agius has yet to issue a statement explaining why the damage was kept from the public. Additionally, he has not responded to growing concerns regarding significant delays in the crypt’s restoration process.

Originally, the restoration project was scheduled to be completed in 2022 and was intended to transform the Bartolott Crypt into an exhibition space to showcase the Co-Cathedral’s renowned Silver Collection. However, repeated setbacks have plagued the project, leading to extensive financial losses and frustration among conservationists and project stakeholders.

Financial Implications and Delays in the Restoration Project

The restoration project received an allocation of €3.5 million in European Union funding through the 2017 European Regional Development Programme. However, due to ongoing delays and mismanagement, the Foundation is now expected to forfeit nearly €1 million of these funds.

Compounding the issue, Mgr Agius reportedly approved an expenditure of €70,000 for the acquisition of a crib, a decision that has drawn scrutiny from experts who have questioned its relevance and necessity.

In light of these financial and administrative concerns, Archbishop Charles Scicluna has initiated an internal inquiry into the matter. The scope of this investigation includes an assessment of the extensive delays plaguing both the Bartolott Crypt restoration and the long-overdue Co-Cathedral Museum expansion. However, despite the gravity of these concerns, no findings from the investigation have been made publicly available.

The Unfinished Co-Cathedral Museum Expansion

The extension of the St. John’s Co-Cathedral Museum, one of Malta’s most significant cultural and historical landmarks, was originally slated for completion in 2018. Seven years later, the project remains incomplete, with no clear indication as to when it will be finalized.

In 2023, the Foundation’s CEO, Tonio Mallia, stated that the museum expansion was now projected to open in 2025 at an estimated cost of €13 million. However, internal sources have revealed that this figure may significantly underestimate the final cost, raising further concerns about financial oversight and project management.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding the restoration of the Bartolott Crypt underscores fundamental issues in project oversight, accountability, and heritage preservation. The conflicting reports from the Ombudsman’s office and independent experts raise significant questions about transparency, governance, and decision-making within the Foundation.

With millions in EU funds at risk and a site of immense historical importance in jeopardy, immediate action must be taken to address these pressing concerns. Authorities must prioritize an independent review of the project, ensuring that any necessary restorations adhere to best practices in heritage conservation and that those responsible for any negligence are held accountable.

FAQs

What is the Bartolott Crypt?
The Bartolott Crypt is a historic burial chamber within St. John’s Co-Cathedral, serving as the resting place for approximately 600 members of the Knights of St. John.

What type of damage occurred to the crypt?
Significant structural damage was inflicted on the stone flooring due to the installation of a heavy raised flooring structure, causing portions of the surface to subside.

Who conducted the technical report on the damage?
The report was compiled by AP Projects, the same architectural firm responsible for designing and installing the flooring structure that caused the damage.

Why is the Ombudsman’s report being questioned?
The Ombudsman’s findings contradicted photographic evidence and the independent technical report, leading experts to question the integrity of the investigation.

How much EU funding was allocated for the restoration project?
The project was granted €3.5 million in EU funds, but due to mismanagement and delays, nearly €1 million is expected to be lost.

What is the current status of the restoration project?
Originally set for completion in 2022, the project remains unfinished, with no definitive completion date in sight.

Why was the damage not disclosed publicly?
Reports suggest that the St. John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation attempted to conceal the damage, raising transparency concerns.

Who is responsible for the project’s delays?
Mgr Emmanuel Agius and the Foundation have faced criticism for alleged mismanagement and failure to complete the restoration on schedule.

Has an official investigation been launched?
Archbishop Charles Scicluna has ordered an inquiry into the delays and damage, though no public findings have been released yet.